One Day Longer Than Forever

By AJ Adaire

Dr. Kate Martin needs a vacation after a failed romance with her business partner nearly ruins her. Lee Foster is recovering from her first lesbian relationship that self-destructed when her partner moved several states away, leaving her behind. Two failed romances, a double booked vacation cabin, and a blizzard—will fate intervene again and turn a passionate affair with a stranger, into something more?

• Language: English
• Publisher: Desert Palm Press
• Release date: Jun 13, 2014
• ISBN: 9781310847738

AJ Adaire

Let me tell you a little about myself. Twenty years ago, I wrote my first lesbian romance novel just to see if I could do it. The novel occupied space on my bookshelf, unread for nearly twenty years until, one day while in a cleaning frenzy, I considered disposing of the neatly stacked but now age-yellowed pages. As I began to read the long forgotten work, I was surprised to discover that the story was enjoyable! Editing and retyping the first book provided a new sense of accomplishment and additional tales followed. Now retired, there is all the time in the world to write. I live on the east coast with my partner of thirty years. Because we love a challenge, we provide a loving home for two spoiled cats instead of a dog! In addition to writing, any spare time is devoted to reading, mastering new computer programs, and socializing with friends. My debut novel, Sunset Island, was published in September 2013. It begins the Friends Series. A novelette, The Interim, (November 2013), continues the story of Ren Madison and her transition towards being able to love again. Awaiting My Assignment, Book 2 of the Friends Series quickly followed in December 2013. It picked up the story of Melanie, Ren’s close friend, and introduced her new partner Amanda. Book 3, Anything Your Heart Desires, (March 2014) is the last book in the series for now. It features all the characters from the previous books, and tells Jo’s story. My first novel not in the Friends series, One Day Longer Than Forever, was released in June 2014. It’s Complicated followed in October 2014. If you enjoy sailing, or reading about sailing, you might enjoy my next release, I Love My Life, released in March 2015. AJ’s most recent book is Journey To You available now.

Book preview

Section 1 – Kate and Max

Chapter 1

KATE MARTIN JUNIOR YEAR OF COLLEGE 1985

THE REVELATION CAME JUST before the end of Kate’s junior and Marie Claire’s senior year. Marie Claire came home from an evening out dancing with some friends at a local bar. It was apparent she’d consumed more to drink than she should have as she unsteadily made her way down the hallway towards Kate’s room. Kate stirred from sleep, still groggy, as Marie Claire entered her room and knelt next to her bed. The breath she exhaled carried the sharp aroma of the alcohol she’d consumed. You awake?

Um hum. Marie Claire’s hand felt cool as she brushed Kate’s short soft curls off her forehead. The illumination from the ceiling fixture in the hallway caused Marie’s mane of shiny light brown hair to glow in the soft light.

I need to tell you something, Marie Claire whispered in the thick-tongued speech characteristic of one who’d consumed too much alcohol. Marie leaned over to place a soft kiss on Kate’s mouth. It wasn’t much of a kiss as kisses go, since Kate was too shocked to kiss her back. Still, it marked the first time Kate knew for sure that she could physically respond to another woman.

Marie Claire’s breath brushed Kate’s ear raising goose bumps. I love you, she whispered, and then she was gone.

Alone in the dark, Kate felt disoriented, almost unsure whether she had dreamed the whole experience. The feeling was reinforced when her roommate didn’t make any acknowledgement of the event the next day.

Several weeks later, just before the end of the semester, she and Marie Claire were alone for a long weekend in the tiny, off-campus apartment they shared with their roommate, Kelly.

Feet to feet, Marie Claire and Kate were stretched out on the sofa. It’s nice that we’re alone. It’s quieter without Kelly here, Kate observed.

Marie Claire nodded and placed her finger in the book she was reading. I know. It’s amazing that someone so small can make so much noise. It’s been like a library here since she left for her parents’ home this afternoon when classes ended. It’ll be nice having the place to ourselves for the weekend. Following the brief exchange, they returned to their reading.

Studying for the next week’s final exams, each woman had a textbook propped on her knees. Sensing Marie Claire’s eyes on her, Kate looked up. Meeting her roommate’s warm chocolate brown gaze, she felt an immediate physical response. Marie Claire was golden, one of those people who seemed to have a perpetual tan. Kate watched the slow and deliberate path as Marie Claire’s pink tongue emerged to moisten her plush lips. Kate loved her expressive eyes and the way her lips curved up at the corners even when she was deep in thought. Nearly as tall as Kate, she had full breasts and a shapely derrière that filled out her jeans perfectly. Kate could hear Marie Claire’s nervous swallow as Kate continued to hold her focus.

Unable to stand the silence any longer, Marie Claire asked, What?

Kate gathered her courage. Did you mean it, MC?

Mean what?

What you told me that night a few weeks ago, you know, that you love me?

Marie Claire looked away, her gaze resting everywhere but on the source of her discomfort. At last, her eyes returned to Kate’s open, unwavering gaze. A flood of moisture glazed MC’s eyes at her whispered acknowledgement. One tear spilled over to track its way down the contour of her cheek, eventually disappearing into the corner of her mouth, causing her to lick her lips again.

Kate slid across the sofa to sit facing her roommate. Gently brushing away the evidence of the tear’s path, she said, Don’t cry. I love you, too. Later she would wonder where she got the courage to lean over to place a kiss on those tantalizing lips. Their contact was tentative at first, but when MC pulled her closer, the kiss deepened. The attraction that had smoldered between them for months burst into flame.

Oh God, Kate. Your lips are so soft and you taste so sweet.

Umm. You taste salty. Kissing you is amazing. Kiss me again, MC. Kate had experienced her fair share of kisses with the guys she’d dated over the years, even a quick but unfulfilling tussle when she lost her virginity in the back seat of Keith’s car. Despite all that, she’d never before felt her body respond as it did to the tentative touches of this woman.

MC slipped her fingers under Kate’s pajama top, slowly sliding it up her torso and lifting it off over her head. She paused long enough to allow her eyes to leisurely roam over newly exposed breasts. You’re beautiful. She reached out to touch the smooth skin. Slowly, her fingertips traveled down Kate’s chest, lightly brushing across the swell of her breast, leaving a trail of goose bumps in their wake. The closer MC’s fingertips came to Kate’s nipples, the harder they contracted.

Oh my God! Kate arched into MC’s touch when her fingers finally reached their destination. MC bent and sucked an erect nipple into her mouth as Kate closed her eyes. If this were her last breath she’d die happy and fulfilled. Like a woman possessed she reached out and pulled MC to her, inhaling the sweetness of her skin in the hollow of her neck. Without hesitation or doubt, Kate stripped MC’s pajamas off before quickly divesting herself of her own remaining clothing. I can’t get close enough to you, she murmured into MC’s neck as they struggled to adjust their positions so they could slide their fingers into each other. A few short strokes later they lay entwined, a tangle of arms and legs, each trying to restore her breathing to a normal level. Once recovered, they began again to explore each other’s bodies and find what gave the most pleasure.

Sunday afternoon, snuggled in bed, Kate stirred as her lover tossed the covers back and slipped from bed. Where are you going?

To get us some food. Aren’t you hungry?

Kate’s eyes glinted with desire as she responded. I hate to let you go even for as long as it takes to make a sandwich. I’m having too much fun.

On Sunday evening, Marie Claire gently touched Kate’s face drawing her attention to the seriousness of her words. This weekend was wonderful. Sweetie, you know tonight will be the end, right? I’m leaving for at least six more years of school in California, and you have a minimum of five years here in Philly, more if you specialize.

I know. Tears welled in Kate’s eyes, threatening to spill over. Maybe I can transfer.

Be realistic. I don’t like it any more than you do. I can’t think of any other options. We have to accept it. There’s just no way. I’m glad we had this weekend though, and I’m glad my first time with a woman was with you.

First time? The thought had never crossed Kate’s mind that she might be homosexual. It was impossible to believe that either of them would do this again with another woman or that there would be a next time with someone else. Do you think we’re lesbians or just attracted to each other?

I don’t know. I’ve been so focused on you, I’ve never thought about wanting anyone else. What about you?

No, I’ve never really felt like this about anyone else. I don’t want anyone other than you.

Marie Claire cradled Kate. I know. Think about it, though. We have to face reality. You’ve got one more year of pre-med with vet school and possibly specialization after that. I’m farther along than you, and I’m not even close to being ready to settle down. With me attending school in California next year and you in school here in Pennsylvania, we’ll be on opposite sides of the country. We have no chance, Katie. There’s no more time for us, just tonight. So come here and love me one more time.

Doesn’t what we’ve found mean anything to you? Don’t you want us to be together like this?

Katie, be real. It means something, but not everything. I can only give you now. I can’t give you forever. I’m sorry.

Kate blinked back her tears and buried her face in Marie Claire’s neck. Never before had she been so happy and so miserable all at the same time.

Chapter 2

DR. KATE MARTIN

DOCTOR BRACKEN DECIDED TO expand his veterinary practice in 1992. Dr. Kate Martin was the last of the three candidates to be interviewed. Doctor Bracken greeted Kate warmly. Call me Doc, or Doc B. Everyone does. Only my mother calls me Nathaniel. They shook hands and he pointed to a chair opposite him. Have a seat. May I call you Kate?

Please.

I’ve reviewed your application. Let’s start with you telling me a little more about your background. Dr. Bracken set the clipboard with Kate’s application on the table and gave her his full attention.

Kate adjusted her position and exhaled a nervous breath before she began. In addition to my basic degree in general veterinary medicine, I specialized in large animals. I also volunteered at my local wildlife rescue and refuge center throughout college and whenever I could during my years of vet school as well.

Your background will mesh well with the type of work we do here in this practice. A substantial proportion of our clients are the local farmers and their livestock, including cows, pigs, sheep, and horses. Both of my assistants and I volunteer at the refuge center a few hours a week where we provide services to sick animals. Additionally, we provide emergency care to the refuge for injured wildlife. Unfortunately, many of them, especially the deer, owls, and other raptors, too often have unfortunate run-ins with vehicles. As a group, we donate as much time as we can to their facility. They do good work. Doctor Bracken made some notes on the interview sheet secured to the clipboard on the table. Tell me a little more about your experience.

Kate, feeling more relaxed, elaborated on her coursework and her training. The interview was informal, and there were several instances of laughter as they shared some of their more humorous experiences dealing with animals and their owners.

You’re quite young to have so much training and experience.

I skipped a grade in elementary school, so I graduated high school at sixteen. In high school, I took several advanced placement classes. Those courses, plus the fact that I took classes during summer school sessions enabled me to finish my undergrad just after I turned nineteen. Vet school and specialization after that. Seems I’ve been in school forever.

Impressive. He flipped through her file. Your transcripts confirm that you were an excellent student, and your letters of recommendation are extremely strong. He returned to his list of questions on the front of his clipboard. Well, that’s the last question I have. Is there anything you’d like to ask me?

Kate smiled. She felt comfortable enough with her potential boss to respond with, You mean other than are you going hire me? She was pleased when Doctor Bracken laughed at her response.

Yes, I think I am. Let’s talk about the details over a cup of coffee, shall we?

Make it tea, and you have a deal.

***

Kate relocated and started her new job. A few months later, she bought a house and became a permanent part of the community. As she and Doc B worked cooperatively over the next four years, the practice grew. During that time, one-by-one the large, mostly family owned, farms sold to developers, and the rural nature of the small Pennsylvania community began to change. When she started work, the total population of the town was around three thousand, while another eight hundred and some lived on the surrounding farms.

Kate and Dr. Braken met each morning to divide the work, taking turns on office hours and farm visits. They split their day so that one of them was always in the office during regular hours.

Good morning, Kate. Doc B reviewed the day’s schedule. You have quite a few house calls this morning.

Yes, I’m about to leave. I just finishing loading all the vaccines and other supplies I’ll need today. Kate snapped her bag closed.

Did you see the Johnson farm is for sale?

Kate nodded. Yes, noticed the sign on my way in. It seems that almost every month another farm in the area is put on sale. I can’t believe how quickly things have changed.

As local farmers reached retirement age and learned that their children and family members were uninterested in continuing in their vocation, one long-term farmer after another had no choice except to put their farms up for sale. As each farm sold, their fertile fields gave birth to a crop of large developments. Each group of houses was filled with young families who commuted to high paying jobs in Philadelphia or New York City.

Yes. Dr. Bracken replaced the schedule book on the reception desk. Our practice is changing too. Notice it? We’re seeing many more family pets now. The population of the community has swelled to over five thousand in the few short years since you came here. Fewer farms mean a reduced need for our large animal services.

I’ve noticed the change. We’re the only practice around who still specializes in providing services to the larger animals. Still, with all the people moving into the developments there’s an increase in the number of clients with house pets. Our small animal practice is flourishing.

You know, Kate, if the practice continues to grow, and we want to continue our specialization on horses, cows, and other large animals, we may need to entertain adding another vet. Right now, some days, it feels like there aren’t enough hours in the day to meet all the need.

***

Several months later, Dr. Bracken and Kate agreed they could no longer handle the demands of the busy practice on their own. Kate, I think it’s time to hire another vet. Will you sit in on the interviews with me?

I’d love to.

They interviewed and settled on a young vet straight out of school, Dr. Maxine Mountebank. At lunchtime on Maxine’s first day of work, between patients, Kate stuck her head into the exam room and announced, I’m ordering lunch. Want me to order something for you? Here’s the menu.

Thanks. I’m starving. I skipped breakfast this morning. I have another patient coming in a minute, so just get me the biggest salad they have with chicken on it. Let me know what I owe you.

They settled in the staff room during the lunch break. Man, I’m so hungry I could eat a horse, Maxine said as she unwrapped her bag and slid payment for her salad across the table to Kate.

Maybe that’s not a good sentiment to express in a practice that still caters to large animals. Kate chuckled.

Maxine looked over each shoulder before she whispered, I won’t tell if you don’t.

Deal. The aroma of fried onions permeated the small room as Kate unwrapped her cheese steak sandwich.

I’m glad you offered to get me lunch. Thank you. I’m staying at the motel out on the main highway. I didn’t know where to get something for lunch this morning. You saved my life, figuratively and maybe even literally. Max squeezed the dressing from the plastic envelope onto her salad. I need to get a place to live as soon as possible. I can’t afford to stay in the motel longer than a few more days. Where would you suggest I look to find inexpensive accommodations?

Kate lowered her sandwich long enough to ask, Do you want a house, an apartment, or a room?

House? Ha! I can’t afford that or an apartment right now for that matter. I’m going to have to settle for a room or a share, at least for a few months, until I get some money put aside.

Kate thought for a moment before she offered. Look, I have a house with a spare bedroom. Why don’t you rent that for a little while until you have time to explore the area and can find something more satisfactory? At least you’ll be able to get a feel for the town and figure out where you’ll feel most comfortable.

That’s very generous. I appreciate it.

They agreed to meet after work at Kate’s house to allow Max to see the room and to work out the details.

***

As the practice flourished, so did Max and Kate’s friendship. What they intended as a temporary solution to Max’s need for a place to live stretched into several months.

This place is really dead. I’m going down to Tappy’s. Max was used to more nightlife than their small town offered. She hung out at the local tavern most Friday evenings where a small band played and the audience danced to country western songs. Come with me. Please. The phrase had become her mantra every time she left to go out for an evening.

Kate steadfastly resisted. Finally growing tired of making up excuses and feeling comfortable enough with Max, she confided the reason she wasn’t interested in hanging at the local bar on Saturday night. I’m sorry, going there is just not my thing. Listen, I hope this won’t impact our friendship. I have something to tell you. I’m uh, a lesbian.

Max blinked, giving no additional visible reaction other than to arch her eyebrows. Really? How did you know you were gay?

Kate’s mind quickly flashed back to college. She wondered how much she really needed to divulge of her past.

Hey, where did you go? Max touched Kate’s arm, snapping her mind back from her memories and refocusing her in the present. You don’t have to tell me how you knew if you don’t want to. It really doesn’t matter. I was just curious.

No, it’s okay. Your question just made me think of an old memory. I don’t mind telling you. It took me a while to figure it out, the fact I was attracted to women, I mean. The realization first occurred to me during my junior year in college when I had a very short affair with my roommate. The recollection of that the weekend-long affair, if one could even call it that, made her smile. I wasn’t yet nineteen. I had no clue I was attracted to women until she kissed me and everything became clear. After that, I had two relationships in vet school, each of which ended when the woman I cared about graduated and moved on while I remained to finish my training. I hate to sound sorry for myself. The truth is I’ve never been involved with anyone who made me a priority. In fairness, I’ve never been willing to sacrifice my goals for anyone else either.

A look of puzzlement flashed across Max’s face. I don’t understand, don’t you want a husband, children, pets, stability?

A husband, no. Children, not any more. Kate shook her head. I’ve missed that boat. I already have a dog, a good job, own a home—that’s stability in my estimation. Her brow furrowed. You think I’m not stable?

In response, Max waved a hand in dismissal. No, of course not. I do wonder though, what about love? Don’t you miss having someone love you?

How can I miss something I’ve never had?

It’s just not fair. Max brushed her hand slowly along Kate’s forearm up to her elbow before returning to her starting point, only to repeat the journey. You deserve more. You’re a wonderfully warm and caring person. You deserve to be loved.

Kate’s skin warmed at Max’s touch. Well, perhaps that’s true. Do you see anyone volunteering? I don’t

After a pause Max replied, Not yet. I’ll keep you posted if anyone comes to mind. Max abruptly changed the subject. So, let’s go pick out some paint. This place is depressing. If you expect me to stay here, we need to spruce it up a bit. We’re starting here in the living room. My room is next. She softened her criticism with a smile and a warm squeeze of Kate’s hand before she stood, pulling Kate up after her. Come on, get a move on.

Chapter 3

KATE MARTIN AND MAX

AS TIME PASSED, MAX and Kate grew steadily closer. After living with Kate a little more than four months Max stopped going to the bars to meet men. She hadn’t dated anyone since she’d moved in with Kate because, when not working, she and Kate were enjoying dinner at their favorite Italian restaurant, catching a movie, or working on the house.

Max, please don’t misunderstand me. It’s not that I don’t enjoy spending time with you. It’s just that you should be getting out and meeting people.

No, I like when it’s just the two of us doing things on the house, having dinner, talking. I’m happy with that. I only miss one thing about not going out. I love to dance and I never get to do that any more. She paused, pursing her lips in thought. Almost as an after thought she added, That’s about it.

Even though Kate enjoyed her time with Max, she also enjoyed a variety of other activities including sharing her life with friends and family. She was overdue to see her best friend, Kyle, with whom she usually visited regularly, if not once a week, at least several times a month. A few additional times during the year Kate acted as Kyle’s ‘date’ for the deeply closeted lawyer’s work related dinners and social functions. It didn’t hurt Kate’s reputation to be seen on the arm of the handsome attorney either, she admitted to herself. Kyle was fond of saying, The town you live in is just large enough that not everyone knows your business, just those who count. It had been nearly a month since she’d seen him, a combination of his demanding job and her own focus on the improvements she and Max had been making on the house.

Max had proven that she knew what she was talking about when it came to home repairs. Kate’s craftsman style cottage was originally constructed in 1905. As they worked, it soon became apparent that there had been several renovations after the house was first constructed. The original and beautifully grained oak emerged as layers and layers of different colored paint were stripped from the woodwork in the living room.

Kate looked forward to hearing Kyle’s deep voice as she dialed his number.

Hello, Kate. It’s good to hear from you.

Hey there, long time, and all that. How have you been?

Hey Babe! I’m good, and so glad you called. You were on my list of people to contact today. Great minds, right? We’re overdue for a get together. Can you manage lunch later, maybe around oneish?

Kate quickly reviewed her calendar. Make it one-thirty, don’t call me babe again, and you’re on. Same place as usual?

Okay. Sure. I’ll see you there, Sweet Cheeks.

Kate was still laughing when she hung up. She was working a split shift, with three on-site visits that morning, followed by office hours starting at four. Hurrying to get out the door, she uttered a silent prayer that the visits would go smoothly so she could get home to shower before she met Kyle. Her mind was in overdrive as she reviewed the jobs scheduled for that morning. Her happy conclusion was